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About

FROM THE FIRST SURF SCHOOL IN CAPARICA TO A FULL OCEAN LIFESTYLE COMMUNITY

BORN BY THE OCEAN
BUILT FOR PEOPLE

THE BEGINNING (1994)

Dr. Bernard started the first surf school in Costa da Caparica in 1994. For over 30 years we've shared waves, knowledge and the ocean lifestyle with locals and travelers from around the world.

THE ECOSYSTEM (2018)

Gregory Bernard relaunched Dr. Bernard as a full lifestyle destination. Adding a beachfront restaurant, wellness center with gym, cowork space, accommodation and events venue.

THE COMMUNITY (TODAY)

A growing community of surfers, digital nomads, local families, travelers and creatives: all connected by the ocean and a shared love for the Caparica lifestyle.

THE STORY BEHIND
DR. BERNARD

Many people ask the same question when they first hear the name:

Who is Dr. Bernard?

The name is a tribute to Gregory Bernard's father, a doctor whose values of care, community and wellbeing inspired the project. After years working internationally between Paris, London and Los Angeles, Gregory discovered Costa da Caparica while searching for a place close to the sea and the surf.

OUR PHILOSOPHY
THE 3 PILLARS

NOURISHMENT

Healthy, homemade meals in a relaxed oceanfront setting, made to fuel your body and lift your mood.

MOVEMENT

From surf lessons, gym and boxing to yoga and bike tours: movement is at the heart of everything we do by the mar.

SOUL

Community, music, events and moments that last. The energy of Caparica lives in the people who share it.

THE DR. BERNARD
ECOSYSTEM

HOST YOUR NEXT CORPORATE EVENT

Organize your next team building, company retreat, workshop or brand activation in Costa da Caparica.

THE DR. BERNARD WORLD

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WHAT WE BELIEVE

Ocean First

We live by the sea. Respect the waves, protect the coast.

Community Over Everything

We build spaces where people connect, grow and belong.

Move Every Day

Surf, train, breathe. The body feels better when it moves.

Eat Well, Live Well

Real food, made with care. Good nutrition is part of a good life.

Be Inclusive

Everyone is welcome: beginners, locals, travelers, families and all backgrounds.

Stay Curious

We keep evolving, exploring and creating. The sea never stops moving.

DR. BERNARD ECOSYSTEM IN COSTA DA CAPARICA

JOIN THE TEAM

Love the ocean lifestyle? We're always happy to meet people who want to grow, create and bring good energy to Caparica.

Still have questions?

Our team is ready to help you plan your perfect coastal experience

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ

What is Dr. Bernard?

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Dr. Bernard is a lifestyle destination in Costa da Caparica combining a surf school, beachfront restaurant, wellness center, cowork space, accommodation, events venue and corporate experiences, all by the ocean.

Who is Dr. Bernard?

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Dr. Bernard is a tribute to Gregory Bernard's father, a doctor whose values of care, community and wellbeing inspired the project. Gregory founded the first surf school in Caparica in 1994 and relaunched the brand as a full lifestyle destination in 2018.

Where is Dr. Bernard located?

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We're located in Costa da Caparica, right on CDS Beach — just 20 minutes from Lisbon by car via A2.

How did Dr. Bernard start?

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It began in 1994 as the first surf school in Costa da Caparica, founded by Miguel Inácio. Over 30 years later, it has grown into a full ocean lifestyle community encompassing surf, wellness, food, events and accommodation.

What does Dr. Bernard offer?

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Surf lessons, surf camps, kids ATL, wellness classes (boxing, yoga, ice bath, gym), a beachfront restaurant, cowork space, events, accommodation and corporate retreats.

Is Dr. Bernard suitable for families?

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Yes. We have surf lessons for kids, a dedicated kids ATL surf program, family rooms at Villa Caparica hostel, a family-friendly restaurant and a safe, sandy beach right outside.

Can I come just for the restaurant?

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Of course. The Dr. Bernard restaurant is open to everyone, no booking required for walk-ins, though reservations are recommended on weekends and during summer.

Do I need to be a surfer to enjoy Dr. Bernard?

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Not at all. Whether you surf, work remotely, come for food, attend an event or just want to relax by the ocean, there's something for everyone at Dr. Bernard.

How can I follow what's happening at Dr. Bernard?

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Follow us on social media and check our weekly schedule on the website for the latest events, classes, DJ nights and surf camps.

How do I get to Dr. Bernard?

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Costa da Caparica is just 20 minutes from Lisbon by car via A2. Direct buses run from central Lisbon (lines 3710, 3709, 3708, 3022). Easy parking is available nearby.

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